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ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT <br /> 306F REVERE ROAD <br /> HILLSBOROUGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27278 <br /> HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMSSION <br /> December 9, 1994 <br /> Mr. William J. Waddell, Jr. <br /> Chairman, Orange County Planning Board <br /> Post Office Box 8181 <br /> Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278 <br /> Re: Black Walnut Farm Subdivision <br /> Dear Mr. Waddell: <br /> The Orange County Historic Preservation Commission is concerned about the proposed Black Walnut Farm <br /> subdivision on St. Mary's Road. In our opinion, the proposed development is inappropriate for the rural <br /> and historic characteristics of the area. Two adjacent properties, Maple Hill Farm and Sunnyside, will be <br /> adversely impacted by this development. Maple Hill Farm is listed on the National Register of Historic <br /> Places,and is one of Orange County's preeminent historic sites. Sunnyside is also an important historical <br /> resource and potentially eligible for the National Register. <br /> The Planning Department informs us that the proposed Black Walnut Farms subdivision complies with <br /> existing development guidelines. Nonetheless, we are extremely concerned that future proposals for <br /> conventional subdivisions will continue to negatively impact the historic nature of the St.Mary's Road area. <br /> St.Mary's Road is a historic corridor. It follows the route of The Indian Trading Path,and several historic <br /> sites and potential archeological sites lie along it. We believe that future development along St. Mary's <br /> should preserve the historic integrity and visual qualities of the corridor by employing innovative open <br /> space design concepts. <br /> The Historic Preservation Commission applauds the efforts of the Planning Board in recommending flexible <br /> development options that will satisfactorily address the issues arising from the Black Walnut Farms <br /> subdivision proposal. <br /> We share your belief that sustainable development,i.e.,allowing for economic growth while protecting our <br /> historical, environmental, and cultural resources, is critical to the future well-being of Orange County. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> Todd Dickinson /Vu <br /> Chairman <br /> /db <br /> cc: Mr- Moses Cary, Jr., Chairman, Orange County Board of Commissioners <br /> Mr. John M. Link, County Manager <br /> Mr. Marvin Collins, Planning Director <br />